Wednesday, August 15, 2007

Charles Denson: Coney's Connoisseur and Celeb Defends His Turf

In an editorial written by Charles Denson for the New York Daily News, Mr. Denson stresses the importance of protecting Coney Island's amusement zone. He insists the city should not kowtow to a developer who will go to the extent of "darkening" Coney Island in hopes of having the next administration buckle under their demands.
Mr. Denson writes:
The latest land grab is being orchestrated by a developer who seeks to change Coney Island's unique amusement zoning. Most people agree that Coney needs improvement, but they also realize that a scenario that includes just one owner and a rezoning that allows high-rise residential development is a dangerous combination that could lead to the death of Coney Island.

Coney Island has seen vast improvement over the past decade. Crime is down, a new subway terminal and ballpark opened, and the Bloomberg administration saved the historic B&B Carousel.

Coney Island is the most culturally diverse neighborhood in New York and still serves as the people's playground, a place for people of small means to enjoy the beach and the Boardwalk. Coney has a rich history and heritage that must be preserved for future generations.

Mr. Denson is one of the most knowledgeable and outspoken of personalities in Coney's current story. He is author of two wonderfully vivid and fact-filled books on Coney Island; "Coney Island: Lost & Found" and "Wild Ride: A Coney Island Roller Coaster Family" (read KC's review here). He is also the director of the Coney Island History Project.


Coney's roller-coaster ride Surf's a sought-after turf, so mayor must save this paradise. by Charles Denson [NY Daily News]

Along for the Ride
by Brian Childs of the
Coney Island Reporter blog for [The Brooklyn Rail]




2 comments:

Unknown said...

I always enjoy hearing about what Denson has to say... thanks for sharing!

Anonymous said...

Denson....is not moving up kind of person. I am local CI.
Coney Island is jewel to south brooklyn. Coney Island must go on with renovation of its area for bigger, safer and better luxurious living.